Progress in research on composite cryogenic propellant tank for large aerospace vehicles

Compared with traditional metal tanks, prototype linerless composite cryogenic propellant tanks can achieve weight reductions up to 20%–40%. This prototype has recently become the trend in developing lightweight space vehicles. Moreover, this prototype promotes the research and development of new generations of inexpensive, high-capacity and recoverable space vehicles. In this review, the progress in research on composite cryogenic storage tanks by various space agencies is systematically analysed. Several key issues, including liquid oxygen compatibility and cryogenic mechanical and antileakage properties, in the process of manufacturing composite cryogenic tanks are summarised. Various solutions to these technical difficulties are briefly discussed. Finally, the directions that the development of composite cryogenic propellant tanks may take are explored.